Business Details
34 Years
experience
Your Premier Performing Arts Center in Westcliffe, CO
Founded in 1992, Westcliffe Center for the Performing Arts (WCPA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the cultural landscape of Colorado's Wet Mountain Valley. Housed in the Historic Jones Theater since its inception, we provide year-round programming including plays, musicals, dance performances, first-run films, and educational workshops. Our mission focuses on nurturing local talent through summer training programs, supporting emerging playwrights, and preserving the region's theatrical heritage.With a board of dedicated community leaders and a legacy of artistic excellence, WCPA serves as a vital hub for both classic and contemporary performing arts. Our programming spans comedy, drama, and experimental works, complemented by community engagement initiatives that include volunteer opportunities and venue rentals for local events.
Services
Theater Productions
Movie Screenings
Educational Workshops
Venue Rentals
Community Programs
Details
- Year established: 1992
Highlights and features
- We've served Colorado's arts community since 1992 with continuous programming
- Our Historic Jones Theater offers a unique venue with 1880s architectural heritage
- We provide summer training programs for emerging playwrights and performers
- Our board includes industry professionals with decades of regional arts experience
- We combine classic theater with contemporary works in diverse programming
Services
Theater Productions
We produce classic and contemporary stage works including comedies, dramas, and musicals. Our programming features both emerging and established artists in a historic 1880s theater setting. All productions incorporate professional lighting and sound design.
Movie Screenings
First-run independent and classic films shown in our historic theater space. Screenings include special events with guest speakers and themed programming tied to local cultural initiatives throughout the year.
Educational Workshops
Summer training programs for youth in acting, directing, and technical theater. Curriculum developed in partnership with regional universities featuring masterclasses with industry professionals and performance opportunities.
Venue Rentals
Historic theater and studio space available for community events. Full technical support includes lighting, sound, and projection systems with staff assistance for weddings, concerts, and local productions.
Community Programs
Volunteer opportunities in set construction, costume design, and event management. Special initiatives include backstage tours, internships, and collaborative projects with local schools and cultural organizations.
People
Bev Allen
President
Retired archivist and Custer County resident with extensive nonprofit leadership experience. Oversees strategic direction and preservation efforts for the Historic Jones Theater.
Christiane K. Relph
Vice President
Former Seattle development director with decade-long arts fundraising experience. Manages sponsorship programs and community engagement initiatives for WCPA.
Cheryl Pinnella
Secretary
Retired local school teacher with 25+ years of educational program development. Coordinates youth theater activities and summer workshop logistics.
Scott Mischnick
Treasurer
Local business owner managing financial operations. Oversees budget planning and fiscal compliance for the nonprofit organization.
Anne Kimbell Relph
Founder
Former Broadway and film actress who purchased the Jones Theater in 1992. Served as Artistic Director and authored four novels under her stage name Anne Kimbell.
Questions
What types of performances does WCPA offer?
We present a season of plays, musicals, dance performances, and first-run films. Programming includes both classic works and contemporary pieces with special themed events throughout the year.
How can I support the performing arts center?
Support options include donations, corporate sponsorships, and volunteer participation. We also offer naming opportunities for major donors and special event partnerships.
Are educational programs available for children?
Yes! Our summer workshops provide training in acting, directing, and technical theater for youth. Programs include internships and masterclasses with visiting artists and industry professionals.
Can I rent the theater for private events?
The Jones Theater and Studio 2 spaces are available for weddings, concerts, and community events. Full technical support includes lighting, sound, and projection equipment with staff assistance.
How do I purchase tickets for performances?
Tickets can be purchased through our website, by phone at 719-783-3004, or at local outlets including Candys Coffee Shop and Arterburn Fine Arts in Westcliffe.
Reviews (5)
Jason Hiester
Oct 22, 2021
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An awesome old theater in a small town. Great vibe fun and meaningful productions and I hear they do a Shakespeare festival too. Definitely worth checking out. As an added bonus explore the old jail right behind the building
Pamela Bishop
Jan 30, 2020
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Quaint historic theatre offers first run movies Friday, Saturday evening and a matinee on Sunday. Snack bar with popcorn, drinks and candy. Live plays frequently during spring and summer.
David Vohsman
Nov 01, 2019
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It is not high tech and not the latest high end movie theatre seating, but it was very enjoyable to see a film in this small town gem.
McKenzie Huffman
Dec 28, 2018
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If you are visiting Westcliffe Friday through Sunday...be sure to make time for a movie in this historic theater. Neat antiques in the lobby, quaint concessions. There is also live theater performances during the spring, summer and fall so be sure to check their website or the marquee!
Miriam Diamant
Dec 21, 2018
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This is a cute little theater, we went to watch a high school play. I'm not sure if they show movies here or not. The place is pretty small.